Our three recommendations anchored in practice, evidence and the testimony of thousands of human rights and democracy defenders are a pathway to reposition human rights and democracy support as a strategic priority across Canadian foreign policy.
First, strengthen support for human rights and democracy defenders and organizations globally. Defenders are not failing, they are adapting. Our data further shows that those who faced threats, harassment, or intimidation did not retreat. On the contrary, they deepened their community engagement. They led more types of initiatives. They built more partnerships. They reached more people. Risk, for many defenders, became a catalyst, not a deterrent. We recommend sustaining their work by resourcing the peer networks, psychological support and rapid response infrastructure that defenders have already built. These informal networks are often the first line of protection.
Second, essential support for human rights education is needed. Canada can serve as a constructive model by supporting individuals and human rights organizations through human rights education now and even more so if it joins the Human Rights Council in 2027.
That support allows people to understand and advocate for their rights, including the democratic right to be heard and to participate in governance. It also allows them to acquire the skills to recognize and challenge systems of oppression, discrimination and abuse of power; to build connections and solidarity networks to act collectively and protect one another; and to rely on national and international human rights norms to hold decision makers constructively accountable.
Third, gender equality must be seen as a cornerstone of Canada's credibility. Gender equality is not an abstract principle; it is the foundation of stable, inclusive societies. As such, it must continue to be part of Canada's foreign policy. It is a lever for promoting democracy.
Canada can lead by supporting spaces that convene human rights and democracy defenders from different regions. This can be achieved in practical terms by prioritizing multi-year funding and recognizing organizations and networks that are built as strategic civil infrastructure. These networks reduce isolation and amplify impact.
Thank you.